Last year, we posted a series of audio-blogs outlining the key events of the 22nd Conference of the Parties as they unfolded. To continue with our tradition, we are commemorating the start of the UNFCCC’s COP23 with thoughts from GCAP CEO Tom Downing!

According to the Centre for Disaster Management and Risk Reduction Technology in Germany (by way of the Economist), rebuilding the Caribbean (including Puerto Rico) in the aftermath of Irma will cost nearly US$13bn. Critical to any reconstruction effort is an understanding of climate finance flows and what outcomes are produced for the communities.

In recent weeks, Harvey, Irma, Jose, and Maria have generated heartbreaking images of widespread destruction, bringing into sharp focus the devastating power of nature and man’s tenuous place in the world. While the global call to combat climate change gains momentum, the visual record of these storms’ impacts on communities fosters a visceral and profound sense of urgency.